15 of the Best Dogs for Kids

What are the best dogs for kids? It all depends on your household’s activity level, family energy, and living situation. But, in general, you can’t go wrong with a dog that has a gentle demeanor, friendly attitude, trainable nature, and an ability to keep up with your family.

Those characteristics can cover a wide variety of breeds, however. So how do you choose the right four-legged fit? Consider the following factors as you research family dog breeds, and keep in mind that the best family dogs are truly unique to you and your needs.

What should I consider when looking for kid-friendly dogs?

Size: Tiny dogs can be more fragile, and might be comfortable around older, more cautious kids. Some very large dogs may be right at home with a rough-and-tumble crew, but require regular walks or a yard to romp in. Make sure your family’s circumstances suit the size of your potential new pet.

Energy: Some dogs love to run and roam; others will gladly forgo fetch for cuddles on the couch. The best dogs for families—naturally—will vary depending on the family, so consider whether your crew is looking for a hiking buddy or a furry snuggle bug.

Temperament: Is your family prone to fits of giggles? More serious and stoic? Different dogs have different personalities too, and your pet’s should fit in right alongside your family’s.

Care Requirements: Have you thought about grooming? Who will take the dog for walks? Consider your potential pet’s needs and whether or not your family can meet them before committing to that adorable furry face.

Got all that? Good. Now it’s time to meet a few breeds that could make the perfect companion. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Best Small Dogs for Kids

Dachshund

These playful pups are active, loveable and responsive to training. They enjoy an occasional adventure where they can sniff out a scent.

Good to Know: Dachshunds were bred to chase vermin, so they need regular exercise or play sessions, and may not do well with other very small pets.

French Bulldog

Sturdy, stout and silly, these pups are known for playful personalities and snort-inducing antics.

Good to Know: Exercise and grooming needs are minimal, but because of their shorter snout, you should take care of Frenchies in hot weather. Those adorable facial wrinkles should also be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth.

Havanese

Once a pet among Cuban elite, the Havanese was born to be a companion and can be one of the best small dogs for families. He’s trainable, affectionate and sturdy for his short stature.

Good to Know:Havanese has a hypoallergenic coat that requires brushing 2-3 times a week and regular grooming.

Papillon

These dainty dogs take to training eagerly. They are good-natured, high-spirited and gentle with children.

Good to Know:If you’re looking for small dog breeds for kids who are older, consider a Papillon. Very young children may not know how to properly handle their delicate frames.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles loves companionship and shows it with an eager-to-please attitude. He’s good with other pets and friendly to anyone he meets.

Good to Know: These family-friendly dogs don’t need extensive exercise, but they do love to sniff, explore and play outside from time to time.

Pug

Staunchly silly and easily trainable, Pugs have earned a reputation as one of the best small dogs for kids. They’re patient and steady, but never take themselves too seriously.

Good to Know:Because of their short noses, care should be taken with Pugs in extreme heat. They may also generally wheeze and snore.

Best Medium Dogs for Kids

Beagle

These sweet-tempered fellows always seem to top the list of best dog breeds for families, and it’s no wonder. They prefer company and thrive in a pack—whether that’s made up of humans or other canines.

Good to Know:Beagles have strong instincts to follow their noses, and need a lot of exercise. They can also be stubborn and single-minded if they catch a particularly interesting scent.

Poodle

Known for their intelligence, Poodles are adept at learning tricks and have a dignified and obedient demeanor.

Good to Know: While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Poodles tend to be better tolerated by those with allergies, and many love spending time in the water.

Vizsla

If your family is always in the great outdoors and likes to be on-the-go, a Vizsla may love tagging along. They’re gentle, sensitive and have a keen nose for adventure.

Good to Know:Vizlsas are highly active and need to run, range and play strenuously—every day.

Best Large Dogs for Kids

Boxer

Patient and protective, Boxers love human company and are known as one of the best dogs for children. They’re also typically well-mannered with other household pets.

Good to Know:Boxers like to run, so they’re great companions for jogs or long walks. They may have a stubborn streak.

Collie

Gentle and mild-mannered, Collies are super family-oriented and particularly affectionate with children. Plus, they have the energy to keep up with the whole household!

Good to Know:Don’t confuse a standard Collie with a Border Collie. Border Collies have strong herding drives and can be a bit too much for some young children.

Golden Retriever

There’s a reason they make incredible service dogs. Goldens are gentle, smart and enthusiastic, and their playful side makes them great with kids too.

Good to Know:Golden Retrievers are strong and athletic, and they have an active nature, so make sure they get plenty of exercise.

Irish Setter

Irish setters are athletic, enthusiastic and even-tempered—all things that make them one of the best dog breeds for active families.

Good to Know: Irish Setters live their lives with gusto and need a daily outlet for energy, including plenty of exercise.

Labrador Retriever

Adept service dogs, playful companions, excellent exercise buddies—is there anything Labs can’t do? Widely known as one of the best family dogs, these amiable pups are among the most popular in the United States.

Good to Know:Labs need daily exercise, and love to retrieve and swim. Their coat naturally sheds water.

Newfoundland

There’s no better word to describe this gentle giant than “sweet.” Newfoundlands are notoriously patient, calm and great with children.

Good to Know:Of all the dogs that are good with kids, Newfoundlands are one of the biggest (up to 150 pounds), so they need plenty of room to romp. Some may also drool.

BONUS: ADOPTABLE DOGS

Note: While the breeds in this collection tend to be excellent with kids, individual pets will vary based on personality, training, and life experience. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.